Intramedullary pin, clamp and method of use thereof

ABSTRACT

An intramedullary pin includes a main body having a proximal boundary and a distal boundary; a curved extension having a degree of curvature of at least 1°, the curved extension being in direct contact with the distal boundary; a distal cap having a cylindrical portion and a rounded portion, the cylindrical portion being in direct contact with the curved extension; a grip element having at least one contour, the grip element being in direct contact with the proximal boundary; and a proximal cap having a flat surface, the proximal cap being in direct contact with the grip element. Also disclosed is a clamp that includes a handle, two blades, a pivot, and a plurality of grasping elements including a notch, at least one protrusion, and a groove, where one or more grasping elements have a contour that is structurally complementary to the grip element in the intramedullary pin. A method of immobilizing a bone fracture using the intramedullary pin and/or clamp is also disclosed.

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/694,233, filed Sep. 1, 2017. The entirety of the aforementionedapplications is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present application relates generally to medical devices and morespecifically, to an intramedullary pin, a clamp and methods of using thesame.

BACKGROUND

A bone fracture may be caused by single impact or torque, anaccumulation of small stresses due to fatigue, overuse, repetitiveactivities, or medical conditions that weaken bones, such as bone canceror osteoporosis. There are hundreds of thousands, if not millions, ofbone fractures each year in the United States, and many more instancesof bone fractures world-wide.

Bone fractures are generally treated by immobilization, where thefractured bone is reset into place and immobilized. Common approaches toimmobilization include applying casts made of plaster or other materialand/or placing the patient in traction. Additional methods of treatmentsinclude bone grafting and implantation.

When these treatment methods are employed, the patient is forced into asignificant period of partial, or complete, inactivity, depending uponthe nature and severity of the fracture. If a cast is used forimmobilization, it will often be necessary to immobilize a large area ofthe body surrounding the fracture. While healing occurs, the musclessurrounding the fracture may atrophy from lack of movement and use,which adds to recovery time.

Bone grafting and implantation require one or more invasive surgicalprocedures, in which the patient undergoes local or general anesthesia.As with any surgical procedure, there is an increased risk of infectionand the patient will also experience some discomfort during recovery.Rehabilitation will also be necessary, resulting in the patient spendingadditional time away from work or other activities.

Another concern when treating bone fractures is proper healing. In orderto achieve optimal healing and recovery, the bone fragments should becompletely reset and placed in the same alignment present before thefracture occurred. Depending upon the bone involved and the type offracture, this may be difficult to achieve. In particular, it may bedifficult to reset spiral fractures, compression fractures, anddisplaced fractures; further difficulty may be encountered inmaintaining the bone fragments in proper position during healing andrehabilitation.

Thus, there is a need for a device that can be inserted into themedullary cavity of a fractured bone, and if necessary, to be removed ina manner that minimizes surgical invasion and the risk of further injuryto the patient. There also exists a need for a device to adequately fillthe medullary cavity and hold the bone fragments in proper alignmentduring healing and rehabilitation, and consequently there is a need toprecisely position the device within the medullary cavity.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present application is an intramedullary pin forimmobilizing a fractured bone. The intramedullary pin comprises a mainbody; a curved extension having a radius of curvature; a distal caphaving a cylindrical portion and a rounded portion; a grip elementhaving at least one contour; and a proximal cap having a flat surface,where the degree of curvature is between 1° to 45°.

In some embodiments, a distal boundary of the main body is in directcontact with the curved extension, the curved extension is in directcontact with the cylindrical portion of the distal cap, a proximalboundary of the main body is in direct contact with the grip element,and the grip element is in direct contact with the flat surface of theproximal cap.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour of the grip elementcomprises at least one of an angled surface, depression, hatching,indentation, protuberance, ridge, slot, rail, track, hook, loop,alternating smooth and coarse section, or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour of the grip element isstructurally complementary to at least one contour on a grasping elementof a clamp.

In other embodiments, the proximal cap has a hemispherical shape thatfits into a notch in a clamp.

In other embodiments, the main body, the curved extension, the distalcap, the grip element, and the proximal cap are composed of at least oneof stainless steel, titanium, nitinol and a bioabsorbable material.

In some embodiments, the curved extension has a degree of curvature inthe range of about 5° to 45°, 10° to 40°, 15° to 35°, 20° to 30° or 25°to 35°. In some embodiments, the curved extension has a degree ofcurvature of about 25° or about 30°.

In some embodiments, the fractured bone is a long bone.

Another aspect of the present application is a clamp, comprising: ahandle; two blades; a pivot; and one or more grasping elements includinga notch, at least one protrusion, and a groove, where at least one ofthe grasping elements has at least one contour.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour on the at least onegrasping elements comprises at least one of an angled surface,depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance, ridge, slot, rail,track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and course section, or acombination thereof.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour on the at least onegrasping element is structurally complementary to the contour on a gripelement of an intramedullary pin.

In other embodiments, the notch of the clamp has an inversehemispherical shape that fits into a proximal cap of an intramedullarypin.

In other embodiments, the handle, blades, pivot, and grasping elementsare composed of at least one of stainless steel, titanium and nitinol.

Another aspect of the present application relates to an instrument kit.In some embodiments, the kit includes an intramedullary pin whichcomprises: a main body having a proximal boundary and a distal boundary;a curved extension having a radius of curvature, where the curvedextension is in direct contact with the distal boundary; a distal caphaving a cylindrical portion and a rounded portion, where thecylindrical portion is in direct contact with the curved extension; agrip element having at least one contour, where the grip element is indirect contact with the proximal boundary; and a proximal cap having aflat surface, where the proximal cap is in direct contact with the gripelement.

In some embodiments, the kit includes a clamp comprising: a handle; twoblades; a pivot; and one or more grasping elements including a notch, atleast one protrusion, and a groove, where at least one of the graspingelements has at least one contour. In some embodiments, the at least onecontour on the at least one grasping elements comprises at least one ofan angled surface, depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance,ridge, slot, rail, track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and coursesection, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the at leastone contour on the at least one grasping element is structurallycomplementary to the contour on a grip element of an intramedullary pin.

In some embodiments, the instrument kit is a kit for immobilizing afractured bone includes an intramedullary pin and a complementary clamp.The intramedullary pin comprises: a main body having a proximal boundaryand a distal boundary; a curved extension having a radius of curvature,where the curved extension is in direct contact with the distalboundary; a distal cap having a cylindrical portion and a roundedportion, where the cylindrical portion is in direct contact with thecurved extension; a grip element having at least one contour, where thegrip element is in direct contact with the proximal boundary; and aproximal cap having a flat surface, where the proximal cap is in directcontact with the grip element. The clamp of the instrument kit comprisesa handle; two blades; a pivot; and grasping elements including a notch,at least one protrusion, and a groove, where at least one of thegrasping elements has at least one contour. In some embodiments, the atleast one contour of the grip element comprises at least one of anangled surface, groove, hatching, indentation, protrusion, ridge, slot,rail, track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and coarse section, or acombination thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one contour onthe at least one grasping element of the clamp is structurallycomplementary to the contour on the grip element of the intramedullarypin. In other embodiments, the notch of the clamp has an inversehemispherical shape that is structurally complementary to the proximalcap of the intramedullary pin.

Another aspect of the present application relates to a method ofreducing movement of, or immobilizing, a bone fracture in a subjectusing the intramedullary pin comprising: establishing an access point tothe medullary cavity of the bone; reducing the bone fragments at thefracture; aligning the intramedullary pin at the access point; insertingthe intramedullary pin at replace access point and into theintramedullary cavity; and positioning the intramedullary pin within theintramedullary cavity, thereby reducing movement of, or immobilizing,the bone fragments in the reduced state. In some embodiments, the methodfurther comprises the step of grasping a grip element and a proximal capthe intramedullary pin with a grasping device.

In some embodiments, the bone is a long bone. In other embodiments, thesubject is a mammal. In other embodiment, the subject is a human.

Another aspect of the present application relates to a method ofreducing movement of, or immobilizing, a bone fracture using theintramedullary pin and the clamp of the present application, comprising:establishing an access point to the medullary cavity of the bone;reducing the bone fragments at the fracture; grasping a grip element anda proximal cap the intramedullary pin with one or more grasping elementsof the clamp; aligning the intramedullary pin at the access point;inserting the intramedullary pin at replace access point and into theintramedullary cavity; and positioning the intramedullary pin within theintramedullary cavity, thereby reducing movement of, or immobilizing,the bone fragments in the reduced state.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention can be better understood by reference to thefollowing drawings. The drawings are merely exemplary to illustratecertain features that may be used singularly or in combination withother features and the present invention should not be limited to theembodiments shown.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 2 is a lengthwise profile view of the intramedullary pin embodimentdepicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a height-wise cross-sectional view of the intramedullary pinembodiment depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an intramedullary pinof the present application.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a clamp of the presentapplication.

FIG. 10 is an excerpted lengthwise cross-sectional view of the clampembodiment depicted in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an excerpted lengthwise cross-sectional view of the clampembodiment depicted in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the clamp embodiment depicted in FIG.9.

FIG. 13A is an excerpted perspective view of the grasping elements ofthe clamp embodiment depicted in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13B is an excerpted perspective view of the grasping elements ofthe clamp embodiment depicted in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13C is a widthwise cross-sectional view of the grasping elements ofthe clamp embodiment depicted in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13D is an excerpted widthwise cross-sectional view of the graspingelements of the clamp embodiment depicted in FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is presented to enable any personskilled in the art to make and use the invention. For purposes ofexplanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent toone skilled in the art that these specific details are not required topractice the invention. Descriptions of specific applications areprovided only as representative examples. The present invention is notintended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accordedthe widest possible scope consistent with the principles and featuresdisclosed herein.

This description is intended to be read in connection with theaccompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entirewritten description of this application. The drawing figures are notnecessarily drawn to scale and certain features of the application maybe shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form in theinterest of clarity and conciseness. In the description, relative termssuch as “front,” “back,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” and“lower,” as well as derivatives thereof, should be construed to refer tothe orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing figureunder discussion. These relative terms are for convenience ofdescription and normally are not intended to require a particularorientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, suchas “connected,” “mounted,” and “attached,” refer to a relationship wherestructures are secured or attached to one another either directly orindirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable orrigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly describedotherwise.

As used herein, the terms “horizontal” and “vertical,” and derivativesof those terms, are used in respect to their relationship to the planedefined by the lengthwise body of the Intramedullary pin of the presentinvention. “Horizontal” refers to the plane that can, for example, passthrough the lengthwise body of the Intramedullary pin, while “vertical”refers to a plane that is perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

The term “bone,” as used herein, refers to any part of the vertebrateskeleton of a mammal, such as a human, including long bones, shortbones, flat bones, irregular bones, and sesamoid bones.

The term “long bone,” as used herein, refers a bone having a greaterlength than width and having a shaft and two extremities. Long bones arefound in the limbs and include the clavicle, humerus, radius, ulna,femur, tibia, fibula and the metacarpal and metatarsal bones, includingthe phalanges.

The terms “fracture” or “bone fracture,” as used herein, refer to anydamage to the continuity of a bone, including damage caused by impact,torque, fatigue, overuse, or repetitive activities, or bone-weakeningmedical conditions.

The terms “reduction,” “reduced,” and “reducing,” as used herein, referto a medical procedure to restore a fracture to the correct alignment bymoving the fragments into contact with one another in the correctposition for bone healing.

The term “fixation element,” as used herein, refers to an element thatcompletely or partially embeds into bone, bone fragments, or hard tissueto fasten in order to immobilize reduced bone fragments so that thefragments can grow together. Examples of fixation elements include, butare not limited to, intramedullary pins, nails, staples, rods, wires andscrews. Fixation elements of the present invention can be composed ofany suitable biocompatible material including, but not limited to, metalalloys, polymers, bioabsorbable materials, ceramic, or combinationsthereof.

The term “proximal” end of a device, or a part of a device, as usedherein, is the end that is towards the practitioner holding or operatingthe device. The “distal” end of a device, or a part of a device, as usedherein, is the end that is towards the subject into whom the device, orpart of the device, is to be delivered. In some embodiments, theproximal end and distal end are referred to as the trailing end andleading end, respectively.

The term “structurally complementary,” as used herein, refers to a firststructural element having a shape adapted to fit with a second elementto form a composite structural combination, such as a lock and key, etc.

The term “subject” as used herein includes, without limitation, a human,mouse, rat, guinea pig, dog, cat, horse, cow, pig, monkey, chimpanzee,baboon, or rhesus. In some embodiments, the subject is a mammal. In someembodiments, the subject is a human. In some embodiments, the subject isa pet or an animal.

The term “mammal” is intended to encompass a singular “mammal” andplural “mammals,” and includes, but is not limited to humans; primatessuch as apes, monkeys, orangutans, and chimpanzees; canids such as dogsand wolves; felids such as cats, lions, and tigers; equids such ashorses, donkeys, and zebras; food animals such as cows, pigs, and sheep;ungulates such as deer and giraffes; rodents such as mice, rats,hamsters and guinea pigs; and bears. In some preferred embodiments, amammal is a human.

The term “pet” or “animal” may include any generally non-human animalwhich is owned or otherwise cared for, at least in part, by a human forthe purposes of amusement, entertainment, husbandry, rehabilitation,companionship or the like, wherein several examples of these types ofpets may include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, andinvertebrates, and may specifically include but are not limited to dogs,cats, hamsters, cattle, horses, or a combination thereof. Additionally,it is contemplated that the teachings of embodiments of the presentinvention may also be adapted for use with many types of wild or exoticanimals that are held in captivity such as may be found in a typicalzoo.

Pin

One aspect of the present application relates to a rod-shaped pin. Insome embodiments, the pin is an intramedullary pin that may be used as afixation element for insertion into, and immobilization of, fragments ofa fractured bone in a body of a subject. In a particular embodiment, thesubject is a human. In another embodiment, the subject is an animal. Inanother embodiment, the subject is a mammal. In another embodiment, thesubject is a pet.

The intramedullary pin of the present application may be employed withfragments of any fractured bone. In a particular embodiment, thefractured bone is a long bone. In other particular embodiments, theintramedullary pin of the present application can be used to immobilizethe fragments of a fractured short bone, including the patella,sesamoid, carpal and tarsal bones. In further particular embodiments,the intramedullary pin of the present application can be used toimmobilize the fragments of a fractured flat bone, including the skull,cranium, occipital, parietal, frontal, nasal, lachrymal, vomer, scapula,os innominatum, sternum, and rib bones. In additional particularembodiments, the intramedullary pin of the present application can beused to immobilize the fragments of a fractured irregular bone,including the vertebrae, sacrum, coccyx, temporal, sphenoid, ethmoid,malar, superior maxillary, inferior maxillary, palate, inferiorturbinated, and hyoid bones.

The intramedullary pin of the present application includes asubstantially horizontal main body having a curved extension with adegree of curvature for use in immobilizing bone fragments of a reducedfracture. The curved extension may allow for a less disruptive insertioninto the intramedullary cavity, and once inserted, may further allow forgreater stability in immobilizing the bone fracture, particularly withrespect to rotational stability. In some embodiments, the degree ofcurvature is greater than 1°. In some embodiments, the curved extensionhas a degree of curvature in the range of about 1° to 45°, 5° to 45°,10° to 40°, 15° to 35°, 20° to 30° or 25° to 35°. In some embodiments,the curved extension has a degree of curvature of about 25° or about30°.

The intramedullary pin of the present application may further include agrip element to facilitate grasping by a clamp. The grip element mayhave one or more contoured surfaces, such as angled planes, grooves,indentations and protrusions. These contoured surfaces are configuredfor fitting into contoured surfaces present on the grasping elements ofa clamp by, for example, placing inversions of the grip element contourson the grasping elements of the clamp. In addition, the intramedullarypin may include a proximal cap in a hemispherical shape, for example,and the clamp may be correspondingly provided with an inversehemispherical notch. By employing complementary grip and graspingelements, the clamp and intramedullary pin may offer a medicalpractitioner an improved grasp of, and consequently greater control overthe intramedullary pin during insertion into and placement within theintramedullary cavity, as well as during extraction of theintramedullary pin, should the need arise.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary intramedullary pin 100 of the presentapplication. In this embodiment, the intramedullary pin 100 comprises amain body 110, a curved extension 120, and distal cap 130. Theintramedullary pin 100 may further include a proximal cap 140.

The main body 110 may be an elongated element that constitutes themajority of the length of the intramedullary pin 100, and may define amain axis for the pin 100 in the horizontal direction. The main body 110may include a proximal boundary 111 and distal boundary 112, and theseboundaries may be located towards the proximal and distal ends of theIntramedullary pin 100, respectively. Between the proximal boundary 111and the distal boundary 112, the main body 110 may have a substantiallyeven surface, and may be without indentations or protrusions.

The intramedullary pin 100 may be inserted into the medullary cavity ofa fractured bone in such a way that the main body 110 is alignedsubstantially parallel to the shape of the cavity. In this orientation,the main body 110 may immobilize the reduced bone fragments in thecorrect position to allow union of the fragments at the fracture. Inaddition to immobilizing the bone fragments, the main body 110 mayprovide internal support to the bone fragments, reducing the externalstress and pressure borne by the bone and further facilitating healingand recovery.

The main body 110 further comprises a grip element 113, in directcontact with the proximal boundary 111. In some embodiments the gripelement may be contoured or otherwise shaped in a manner to supportclasping by the clamp 900, embodiments of which are described in furtherdetail below. The contours of the grip element 113 may be structurallycomplementary to the shape of the grasping elements 930 of the clamp900, such that the grasping element of the clamp may have contours thatare the inverse of the contours of the grip element 113, for example.Accordingly, the clamp 900 may securely grasp the intramedullary pin 100during insertion and placement of the pin in the medullary cavity.Similarly, this correspondence may further support the secure gaspingand extraction of the intramedullary pin 100 in cases where the pin isto be removed from the medullary cavity. The grip element 113 fitssecurely into grasping slot 935 with room from 931 to accommodateproximal cap 140.

The grip element 113 may be contoured along its length in various ways,including but not limited to angled surfaces, grooves, hatching,indentations, protrusions, ridges, slots, rails, tracks, hooks, loops,alternating smooth and coarse sections, or any combination thereof. Itis understood that the contours of the grip element 113 may be shaped inany manner in correspondence with the grasping elements 930 of the clamp900 while still maintaining effective contact and support within themedullary cavity.

In some embodiments, the grip element 113 may be contoured to facilitateinsertion into a cross-pin fixator, such as the cross-pin fixatordescribed by U.S. Pat. No. 8,852,248 to Mirza et al., the contents ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Thecontours of the grip element 113 allow the intramedullary pin 100 to besecurely grasped and fixed in place by the cross-pin fixator.

As shown in FIG. 1, located on the opposite end of the main body 110from the proximal boundary 111 may be the distal boundary 112. Theintramedullary pin 100 may further comprise a curved extension 120, indirect contact with the distal boundary 112. Unlike the main body 110,the curved extension 120 may not be substantially horizontal, andinstead may be formed having a radius of curvature directed away fromthe main axis of the Intramedullary pin 100 as defined by the horizontallength of the main body 110.

The curved extension 120 may improve the insertion and placement of theintramedullary pin 100 into the intramedullary cavity. The curvedextension 120 may allow for a smoother and less disruptive insertioninto the cavity. Once the intramedullary pin 100 has been inserted, thecurved extension 120 may improve the stability of the pin within theintramedullary cavity and may prevent movement of the intramedullary pin100 within the cavity. In particular, the curved extension 120 mayimprove rotational stability of the intramedullary pin 100 within theintramedullary cavity. Each of these aspects may improve theimmobilization of bone fragments and promote the proper union offragments at the reduced fracture. Further, in cases where removal ofthe intramedullary pin 100 is necessary, the curved extension 120 mayallow for the pin to be removed in a smoother and less disruptivemanner.

In some embodiments, the intramedullary pin 100 further includes adistal cap 130, which may be in direct contact with the curved extension120. The distal cap 130 may include two portions, a cylindrical portionbounded by the intermediate boundaries 131 and 132, and a roundedportion extending from intermediary boundary 132 to the end of the cap.Unlike the curved extension 120, the cylindrical portion of the distalcap 130 may lack a radius of curvature, and instead may be formed withas a right circular cylinder with a straight line axis.

The rounded portion of the distal cap 130 may form the distal end of theintramedullary pin 100. In some embodiments, the rounded portion mayhave a bowl or dome shape. In other embodiments the rounded portion maybe hemispherical in shape, in other embodiments the rounded portion maybe semispherical in shape, and in other embodiments the rounded portionmay be in the shape of a geodesic dome.

Like the curved extension 120, the shape of the cylindrical portion andthe rounded portion of the distal cap 130 may improve the insertion andplacement of the intramedullary pin 100 into the intramedullary cavity,and may also allow for a less disruptive removal of the intramedullarypin 100, if necessary. Further, once inserted, the distal cap 130 mayimprove the stability of the intramedullary pin 100 within theintramedullary cavity.

The intramedullary pin 100 may further include a proximal cap 140 indirect contact with the grip element 113. In some embodiments, theproximal cap 140 may have a dome shape. In other embodiments the roundedportion may be hemispherical in shape, in other embodiments the roundedportion may be semispherical in shape, and in other embodiments therounded portion may be in the shape of a geodesic dome. It is understoodthat the proximal cap 140 may have the same shape as the rounded portionof the distal cap 130, but this is not required. The proximal cap 140may further include a flat surface 145 that is in direct contact withthe grip element 113.

Like the grip element 113, the proximal cap 140 is shaped forcomplementary joining to the grasping elements 930 of the clamp 900 tofacilitate more secure grasping of the intramedullary pin 100. Thissecure grasping improves the insertion, placement, and extraction of theintramedullary pin 100.

The intramedullary pin 100 may be composed of any materials suitable forinsertion into the medullary cavity, such as metals, metal alloys,polymers, ceramic, or combinations thereof.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the intramedullary pin 100depicted in FIG. 1, with exemplary dimensional details. As in FIG. 1,the intramedullary pin 100 shown in FIG. 2 may comprise a main body 110,proximal boundary 111, distal boundary 112, curved extension 120, distalcap 130, intermediate boundaries 131 and 132, proximal cap 140, and flatsurface 145.

As shown in FIG. 2, the intramedullary pin 100 has a length L extendingfrom the flat surface 145 of the proximal cap 140 to the end 131 of thedistal cap 130. In some embodiments, the length L may be between about10 mm and about 100 mm. In other embodiments, the length L may bebetween about 30 mm and about 80 mm, and in other embodiments the lengthL may be between about 40 mm and 70 mm. In a more particular embodiment,the length L may be 50 mm. The diameter of the main body 110 may bebetween about 1 mm and 5 mm, in some embodiments. In other embodiments,the diameter of the main body 110 may be between about 2 mm and 4 mm,and in other embodiments, the diameter of the main body 110 may bebetween 1 mm and 2 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the diameter ofthe main body 110 may be about 1.6 mm.

In some embodiments, the curved extension 120 and the distal cap 130have a combined length of between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, whenmeasured in the horizontal direction. In other embodiments, the combinedlength of these elements is between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. In a moreparticular embodiment, the combined length of the curved extension 120and the distal cap 130 is about 7.1 mm. Within the distal cap 130, someembodiments of the cylindrical portion between intermediate boundaries131 and 132 have a length of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, when measuredalong the main axis of the distal cap itself. In other embodiments, thecylindrical portion have a length of about 1 mm to 3 mm, and in otherembodiments, the cylindrical portion have a length of about 1 mm toabout 2 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the cylindrical portion mayhave a length of about 1.44 mm.

The curved extension 120 may have a degree of curvature C directed awayfrom the main axis of the intramedullary pin 100, as shown in FIG. 2. Insome embodiments the degree of curvature C is between about 1° and about45°. In some embodiments, the degree of curvature C may be between about5° and about 45°. In some embodiments, the degree of curvature C may bebetween about 10° and about 40°. In some embodiments, the degree ofcurvature C may be between about 15° and about 35°. In some embodiments,the degree of curvature C may be about 20° and about 30°. In someembodiments, the degree of curvature C may be about 25° and about 35°.In some embodiments, the degree of curvature C is about 25°. In someembodiments, the degree of curvature C is about 30°.

The curved extension 120 and the distal cap 130 may contribute to theheight H of the intramedullary pin 100 as shown in FIG. 2. In someembodiments, the height H of the Intramedullary pin is between about 0.5mm and 10 mm, in other embodiments, the height H is between about 2 mmand 7 mm, and in other embodiments, the height H is between about 3 mmand 5 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the height H is about 3.7 mm.

The dimensions of the proximal cap 140 may be defined with reference tolengthwise endpoints 141 and 142 and height-wise endpoints 143 and 144,as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the distance between thelengthwise endpoints 141 and 142 is between about 0.5 mm and about 4 mm,and in other embodiments the distance between lengthwise endpoints 141and 142 is between about 1 mm and about 3 mm, and in other embodiments,the distance between lengthwise endpoints 141 and 142 may be between 1mm and 2 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the distance betweenlengthwise endpoints 141 and 142 may be between 1.37 mm and 1.50 mm. Inanother particular embodiment, the distance between lengthwise endpoints141 and 142 may be about 1.37 mm, and in a further particularembodiment, the distance between lengthwise endpoints 141 and 142 may beabout 1.50 mm.

As shown in FIG. 2, the proximal cap 140 may also include height-wiseendpoints 143 and 144. In some embodiments, the distance betweenheight-wise endpoints 143 and 144 is between about 0.5 mm and about 5mm, in other embodiments the distance between height-wise endpoints 143and 144 is between about 1 mm and about 4 mm, and in other embodimentsthe distance between height-wise endpoints 143 and 144 is between about2 mm and about 3 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the distancebetween height-wise endpoints 143 and 144 is between about 2.87 mm, andin a further particular embodiment, the distance between height-wiseendpoints 143 and 144 is between about 3.00 mm.

It is understood that the distance between height-wise endpoints 143 and144 may be the spherical diameter of the proximal cap 140. It is furtherunderstood that the distance between height-wise endpoints 143 and 144and the height H of the Intramedullary pin may be the same, but this isnot required.

As shown in FIG. 2, the flat surface 145 of the proximal cap 140 may bein direct contact with the grip element 113 of the main body 110, andthe grip element 113 may be contoured to facilitate secure grasping bythe clamp 900, as described above. In some embodiments, the distancebetween the flat surface 145 and the contours of the grip element 113 isbetween about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, in some embodiments the is betweenabout 1 mm and about 3 mm, and in some embodiments the distance betweenthe flat surface 145 and the contours of the grip element 113 is betweenabout 1 mm and about 2 mm. In a more particular embodiment, the distancebetween the flat surface 145 and the contours of the grip element 113 isabout 1.78 mm.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the exemplary intramedullary pin100 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 at the bisecting line A-A within the gripelement 113 in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 shows the width and height of the gripelement 113, as defined by widthwise endpoints 310 and 320 andheight-wise endpoints 330 and 340.

In some embodiments, the distance between the widthwise endpoints 310and 320 is between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm, in other embodiments thedistance between the widthwise endpoints 310 and 320 is between about 1mm and about 3 mm, and in other embodiments the distance between thewidthwise endpoints 310 and 320 is between about 1 mm and about 2 mm. Ina more particular embodiment, the distance between the widthwiseendpoints 310 and 320 is about 1.57 mm.

In some embodiments, the distance between the height-wise endpoints 330and 340 is between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm; in other embodiments,the distance between the height-wise endpoints 330 and 340 is betweenabout 1 mm and about 3 mm; and in other embodiments the distance betweenthe height-wise endpoints 330 and 340 is between about 1 mm and about 2mm. In a more particular embodiment, the distance between theheight-wise endpoints 330 and 340 is about 1.57 mm.

It is understood that the distance between the widthwise endpoints 310and 320 and the height-wise endpoints 330 and 340 may be the same, suchthat the grip element 113, and/or the main body 110, may have asymmetrical cross-section; however, this is not required. FIGS. 4 to 8show perspective views of embodiments of the intramedullary pin 100having varying lengths, as measured horizontally from the end theproximal cap to the end of the distal cap. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 4, the intramedullary pin 100 have a horizontal length of about 50mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the intramedullary pin 100 have ahorizontal length of about 55 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, theintramedullary pin 100 has a horizontal length of about 60 mm. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 7, the intramedullary pin 100 has a horizontallength of about 65 mm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, theintramedullary pin 100 has a horizontal length of about 70 mm. In anadditional embodiment, not depicted in FIGS. 4 to 8, the intramedullarypin 100 has a horizontal length of 40 mm. In a further embodiment, theintramedullary pin 100 has a horizontal length of 45 mm.

Clamp

Another aspect of the present application relates to a clamp for holdingan item. The item may be any item that can be grasped or held by theclamp. In some embodiments, the clamp comprises a handle; two blades; apivot; and one or more grasping elements including a notch, at least oneprotrusion, and a groove, where at least one of the grasping elementshas at least one contour. The clamp can be used for holding or graspingany suitable items, including but are not limited to, medical andsurgical devices such as intramedullary nails, bone pins, intramedullarypins, wires, K-wires, surgical wires, fasteners, and needles. The clampmay also be used to hold or grasp tissues and blood vessels.

In some embodiments, the clamp is designed for grasping anintramedullary pin, In some embodiments, the at least one contour on theat least one grasping elements comprises at least one of an angledsurface, depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance, ridge, slot,rail, track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and course section, or acombination thereof.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour on the at least onegrasping element is structurally complementary to the contour on a gripelement of the intramedullary pin.

In other embodiments, the notch of the clamp has an inversehemispherical shape that fits into a proximal cap of the intramedullarypin.

In other embodiments, the clamp is designed to grasp the intramedullarypin of the present application.

In other embodiments, at least one of the handle, blades, pivot, andgrasping elements of the clamp is composed of at least one of stainlesssteel, titanium and nitinol.

FIG. 9 shows an exemplary clamp 900 of the present application in afully closed position. The clamp 900 comprises a handle 910, pivot 920,and grasping elements 930.

The handle 910 is located at the proximal end of the clamp 900 and mayfurther include finger holds 911 and 912 to facilitate holding andoperation by a medical practitioner. Blades 913 and 914 extend in thedistal direction from the finger holds 911 and 912, and may constitutethe majority of the length of the clamp 900. The extension of the blades913 and 914 in a lengthwise direction forms the main axis of the clamp900.

In some embodiments, the blades 913 and 914 are separated at theproximal end of the clamp 900 to support the finger holds 911 and 912,and the blades 913 and 914 converge to an interlocking position at thedistal end, and the pivot 920 is located at this convergence. The pivot920 may rotate around a pivot center point 921 and this rotation mayresult in movement of the blades 913 and 914 away from the main axis ofthe clamp 900.

The grasping elements 930 are located at the distal end of the clamp 900and include indented notches 931. In some embodiments, the graspingelements 930 further include a blade tip 932, formed by the ends of theblades 913 and 914.

The grasping elements 930 are operated to clasp the grip element 113 ofthe intramedullary pin 100. As previously noted, in some embodiments theproximal cap 140 has a dome, hemispherical, or semispherical shape, andembodiments of the grasping elements 930 may include acomplementarily-shaped notch 931. For example, an embodiment of theintramedullary pin 100 having a hemispherical shape proximal cap 140 maybe paired with a clamp 900 having a correspondingly inversehemispherical notch 931.

This complementary relationship between the notch 931 and the proximalcap 140 allows the clamp 900 to securely grasp the intramedullary pin100. A medical practitioner may employ the clamp 900 to insert and placethe intramedullary pin 100 within the intramedullary cavity toimmobilize a reduced bone fracture. Aligning the notch 931 and proximalcap 140 allows the practitioner to perform this operation with improvedcontrol over the intramedullary pin 100. This improved control reducesthe risk of dislocating the bone fragments during the insertion andplacement of the intramedullary pin 100, and reduces the disruption tothe bone or the surrounding tissue caused by this process. Should theneed arise to remove the intramedullary pin 100, the grasping andextraction process will be similarly improved.

In other embodiments, the grasping elements 930 may be contoured orshaped in a complementary way to these elements of the intramedullarypin 100 that is not strictly inverse. In such embodiments, the clamp 900may be used with a variety of embodiments of pins, which may allow theeconomical use of fewer clamps for a larger range of pins.

With reference to FIG. 9, exemplary dimensions of the clamp 900 will bedescribed. In some embodiments, the distance between the pivot centerpoint 921 and the blade tip 932 (shown as D1 in FIG. 9) is between about0.25 inch and about 2 mm, and in other embodiments the distance D1 isbetween about 0.5 inch and about 1 inch. In a more particularembodiment, the distance D1 is about 0.75 inch.

The notch 931 may include proximal edge points and distal edge points.In some embodiments, the distance between a proximal edge point and adistal edge point of the notch 931 (shown as D2 in FIG. 9) is betweenabout 0.025 inch and about 0.125 inch, and in other embodiments thedistance D2 is between about 0.05 inch and about 0.1 inch. In a moreparticular embodiment, the distance D2 is about 0.075 inch, and in afurther particular embodiment, the distance D2 is about 0.08 inch. Thedistance D2 is understood as the length of the notch 931.

In some embodiments, the distance between two distal edge points at thedistal corners of the notch 931 (shown as D3 in FIG. 9) is between about0.02 inch and about 0.2 inch. In other embodiments, the distance D3 isbetween about 0.05 inch and about 0.18 inch, and in other embodiments,the distance D3 is between about 0.08 inch and about 0.16 inch. In amore particular embodiment, the distance D3 is about 0.124 inch, and ina further particular embodiment the distance D3 is about 0.13 inch. Thedistance D3 may be understood as the height of the notch 931.

Under the foregoing dimensions, the notch 931 may be symmetrical aboutthe main axis, including the bisecting lines A-A and B-B shown in FIG.9. However, it is to be understood that this symmetry is not required,particularly if the corresponding shape of the proximal cap 140 is notsymmetrical.

In some embodiments, the distance between a distal edge point of thenotch 931 and the blade tip 932 (shown as D4 in FIG. 9) is between about0.01 inch and about 0.2 inch. In other embodiments, the distance D4 isbetween about 0.05 inch and about 0.15 inch, and in other embodiments,the distance D4 is between about 0.08 inch and about 0.1 inch. In a moreparticular embodiment, the distance D4 is about 0.09 inch.

FIG. 10 is an excerpted cross-sectional view of the clamp 900 at the A-Abisecting line depicted in FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is an excerptedcross-sectional view of the clamp 900 at the B-B bisecting line depictedin FIG. 9, with inverse cross-hatching for perspective. With referenceto both FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the clamp 900 may include the pivot 920 andgrasping elements 930 having notch 931.

The grasping elements 930 may further include protrusions 933 and 934and a groove 935. These additional grasping elements may operate tograsp the grip element 113 of the main body 110. As previous noted, thegrip element 113 may be contoured along its length, and that thecontours corresponds to the protrusions 933 and 934 and a groove 935grasping elements. For example, the grip element 113 may have contoursin the shape of angled surfaces, and the protrusions 933 and 934 and agroove 935 may have complementary, inverse angled surfaces to facilitatea secure grasp of the grip element 113 by the grasping elements 930.Like the notch 931 and the proximal cap 140, this complementaryrelationship provides a medical practitioner with improved control overthe intramedullary pin 100 when using the clamp 900, which may reducethe risk of dislocation and disruption during the insertion, placement,and extraction of the intramedullary pin 100.

The cross-sections of the notch 931, protrusions 933 and 934, and groove935 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 may be symmetrical across the A-A and B-Bbisecting lines, respectively. It is understood, however, that thissymmetry is not required, particularly if the grip element 113 and theproximal cap 140 are not symmetrical.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the clamp 900 depicted in FIG. 9 inan open position. FIGS. 13A and 13B show an excerpted view of thegrasping elements 930 depicted in FIG. 12 within section D. In FIGS. 12,13A, and 13B, the interior surfaces of the grasping elements 30 arevisible, including the notch 931, protrusions 933 and 934, and thegroove 935. These interiors of the notch 931, protrusions 933 and 934,and the groove 935 are shown in these figures as planar and withoutcontours, marking, or shaping. However, it is understood that suchfeatures may be present if found on the grip element 113 and proximalcap 140 of the intramedullary pin 100.

FIG. 13A shows the grasping elements 930 when the clamp 900 is in theopen position, and FIG. 13B shows these elements when the clamp 900 isin the closed position. The embodiment of FIG. 13B depicts the alignmentof the protrusions 933 and 934 to form the groove 935. It is understoodthat this alignment may occur regardless of the contours, marking, orshaping applied to the protrusions 933 and 934.

FIG. 13C shows a widthwise cross-sectional view from the distal end ofthe exemplary clamp 900 depicted in FIG. 9, and FIG. 13D shows anexcerpted widthwise cross-sectional view from the distal end of theexemplary clamp 900 depicted in FIG. 9. The clamp 900 is in the fullyclosed position in FIGS. 13C and 13D. The gasping elements 930 and theblade tip 932 are visible in FIGS. 13C and 13D, along with theprotrusions 933 and 934 and the groove 935. In some embodiments, thedistance between the edges of the protrusions 933 and 934 forming thegroove 935 in the horizontal direction from the perspective of FIG. 13D(shown as D5 in FIG. 13D) is between about 0.01 inch and about 1 inch.In other embodiments, the distance D5 is between about 0.02 inch and0.08 inch. In a more particular embodiment, the distance D5 is about 0.7inches.

FIG. 13D depicts the distance between the edges of the groove 935 formedby the protrusions 933 and 934 in the height wise direction from theperspective of FIG. 13D (shown as D6 in FIG. 13D). In some embodiments,the distance D6 is between about 0.02 inches and about 0.06 inches, andin other embodiments, the distance D6 is between about 0.03 inches andabout 0.05 inches. In a more particular embodiment, the distance D6 isabout 0.04 inches.

The distances D5 and D6 are depicted in FIGS. 13C and 13D as symmetricalabout the groove 935 and evenly spread between protrusion 933 andprotrusion 934. However, it is understood that such symmetry and evendistribution is not required, and instead the distances D5 and D6 may beasymmetrical or otherwise non-uniform, especially if the correspondingshape of the proximal cap 140 is not symmetrical.

Instrument Kit

Another aspect of the present application relates to an instrument kit.In some embodiments, the instrument kit contains one or more pins of thepresent application. In some embodiments, the kit is a kit forimmobilizing a reduced bone fracture and includes one or moreintramedullary pins of the present application. In some embodiments, theintramedullary pin includes a main body having a proximal boundary and adistal boundary; a curved extension having a degree of curvature of atleast 1°, where the curved extension is in direct contact with thedistal boundary; a distal cap having a cylindrical portion and a roundedportion, where the cylindrical portion is in direct contact with thecurved extension; a grip element having at least one contour, where thegrip element is in direct contact with the proximal boundary; and aproximal cap having a flat surface, where the proximal cap is in directcontact with the grip element. In some embodiments, a distal boundary ofthe main body is in direct contact with the curved extension, the curvedextension is in direct contact with the cylindrical portion of thedistal cap, a proximal boundary of the main body is in direct contactwith the grip element, and the grip element is in direct contact withthe flat surface of the proximal cap.

In other embodiments, the at least one contour of the grip element ofthe intramedullary pin of the present application comprises at least oneof an angled surface, depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance,ridge, slot, rail, track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and coarsesection, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the at leastone contour of the grip element is structurally complementary to atleast one contour on a grasping element of a clamp. In otherembodiments, the proximal cap has a hemispherical shape that fits into anotch in a clamp. In other embodiments, the main body, the curvedextension, the distal cap, the grip element, and the proximal cap arecomposed of at least one of stainless steel, titanium, nitinol, and abioabsorbable material. In some embodiments, the curved extension has adegree of curvature in the range of about 1° to 45°, 5° to 45°, 10° to40°, 20° to 30° or 25° to 35°. In some embodiments, the curved extensionhas a degree of curvature of about 25° or about 30°.

In some embodiments, the instrument kit further includes a clamp of thepresent application. In some embodiments, the clamp comprises a handle;two blades; a pivot; and one or more grasping elements including anotch, at least one protrusion, and a groove, wherein at least one ofthe grasping elements has at least one contour. In some embodiments, theclamp is designed for grasping an intramedullary pin. In someembodiments, the clamp is designed for grasping the intramedullary pinof the present application.

In some embodiments, the at least one contour on the at least onegrasping elements of the clamp comprises at least one of an angledsurface, depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance, ridge, slot,rail, track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and course section, or acombination thereof. In other embodiments, the at least one contour onthe at least one grasping element is structurally complementary to thecontour on a grip element of the intramedullary pin. In otherembodiments, the notch of the clamp has an inverse hemispherical shapethat fits into a proximal cap of the intramedullary pin. In otherembodiments, the handle, blades, pivot, and grasping elements arecomposed of at least one of stainless steel, titanium and nitinol.

In some embodiments, the instrument kit of the present applicationincludes a clamp of the present application. In some embodiments, theclamp comprises a handle; two blades; a pivot; and one or more graspingelements including a notch, at least one protrusion, and a groove,wherein at least one of the grasping elements has at least one contour.In some embodiments, the clamp is designed for grasping anintramedullary pin. In some embodiments, the clamp is designed forgrasping the intramedullary pin of the present application. In someembodiments, the at least one contour on the at least one graspingelements of the clamp comprises at least one of an angled surface,depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance, ridge, slot, rail,track, hook, loop, alternating smooth and course section, or acombination thereof. In other embodiments, the at least one contour onthe at least one grasping element is structurally complementary to thecontour on a grip element of the intramedullary pin. In otherembodiments, the notch of the clamp has an inverse hemispherical shapethat fits into a proximal cap of the intramedullary pin. In otherembodiments, at least one of the handle, blades, pivot, and graspingelements of the clamp is composed of at least one of stainless steel,titanium and nitinol.

In some embodiment, the instrument kit of the present application is asurgical instrument kit that includes an intramedullary pin and a clamp,where the intramedullary pin includes a main body having a proximalboundary and a distal boundary; a curved extension having a degree ofcurvature of at least 1°, where the curved extension is in directcontact with the distal boundary; a distal cap having a cylindricalportion and a rounded portion, where the cylindrical portion is indirect contact with the curved extension; a grip element having at leastone contour, where the grip element is in direct contact with theproximal boundary; and a proximal cap having a flat surface, where theproximal cap is in direct contact with the grip element. In oneembodiment, the clamp includes a handle; two blades; a pivot; andgrasping elements including a notch, at least one protrusion, and agroove, where at least one of the grasping elements has at least onecontour In some embodiments, the kit further includes an awl forpuncturing a hole in the bone to allow for the passage of theintramedullary pin.

Method for Immobilizing a Reduced Bone Fracture

Another aspect of the present application relates to a method ofimmobilizing a reduced bone fracture using the intramedullary pin of thepresent application. In some embodiments, the method comprises the stepsof establishing an access point to the medullary cavity of a fracturedbone in a subject, reducing the bone fragments at the fracture, aligningthe intramedullary pin at replace access point, and inserting theintramedullary pin at replace access point and into the intramedullarycavity, thereby reducing the movement of, or immobilizing, the bonefragments in the reduced state. In some embodiments, the access point isa hole in the bone. In other embodiments, the hole is created with adrill, and in other embodiments, the hole is created with an awl. Insome embodiments, the fractured bone is a long bone. In otherembodiments, the long bone is selected from the group consisting ofmetatarsal bones and metacarpal bones, wherein the metatarsal bones andmetacarpal bones include the phalanges. In some embodiments, the subjectis a mammal. In some embodiments, the subject is a human. In someembodiments, the subject is a pet. In some embodiments, the subject isan animal.

Another aspect of the present application relates to a method ofimmobilizing a reduced bone fracture using the intramedullary pin andclamp of the present application. In some embodiments, the methodcomprises the steps of establishing an access point to the medullarycavity of the bone, reducing the bone fragments at the fracture,grasping a grip element and a proximal cap the intramedullary pin withone or more grasping elements of the clamp, aligning the intramedullarypin at replace access point, and inserting the intramedullary pin atreplace access point and into the intramedullary cavity, therebyreducing the movement of, or immobilizing, the bone fragments in thereduced state. In some embodiments, the subject is a mammal. In someembodiments, the subject is a human. In some embodiments, the subject isa pet. In some embodiments, the subject is an animal. In someembodiments, the access point is a hole in the bone. In otherembodiments, the hole is created with a drill, and in other embodiments,the hole is created with an awl. In some embodiments, the fractured boneis a long bone. In other embodiments, the long bone is selected from thegroup consisting of metatarsal bones and metacarpal bones, wherein themetatarsal bones and metacarpal bones include the phalanges.

Example 1: Reduction and Immobilization of Fractured Metacarpal Bone

A subject presents with a fracture near the distal end of the secondmetacarpal bone on the left hand. The hand is x-rayed and the nature ofthe fracture indicates implantation of an intramedullary pin as thedesired therapeutic approach.

The metacarpophalangeal joint is flexed 90 degrees exposing themetacarpal head, allowing direct access by the intramedullary pin. Thefracture is reduced and held in place and a medical practitioner graspsthe proximal cap and grip elements of the intramedullary pin with thegrasping elements of the clamp. Using the clamp, the practitionerinserts the distal cap, curved extension, and main body of theintramedullary pin into the medullary canal of the phalanx, immobilizingthe reduced fragments of the metacarpal in the correct position to allowunion of the fragments at the fracture. The practitioner releases theclamp's grasp on the grip elements and proximal cap of theintramedullary pin, and removes the clamp from the insertion site. Insome embodiments, the practitioner may tap the top of the proximal capso that it is flush with the bone.

The above description is for the purpose of teaching the person ofordinary skill in the art how to practice the present invention, and itis not intended to detail all those obvious modifications and variationsof it which will become apparent to the skilled worker upon reading thedescription. In addition, the drawings are merely illustrative and maynot be drawn to scale. It is intended, however, that all such obviousmodifications and variations be included within the scope of the presentinvention, which is defined by the following claims. The claims areintended to cover the components and steps in any sequence which iseffective to meet the objectives there intended, unless the contextspecifically indicates the contrary.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of immobilizing a fractured bone,comprising: establishing an access point to the medullary cavity of thefractured bone; reducing the bone fragments at the fracture; aligning anintramedullary pin at the access point; inserting the intramedullary pinat the access point and into the intramedullary cavity; and positioningthe intramedullary pin within the intramedullary cavity, therebyreducing movement of, or immobilizing, the bone fragments in a reducedstate, wherein the intramedullary pin comprises: a main body; a curvedextension having a degree of curvature; a distal cap having acylindrical portion and a rounded portion; a grip element having atleast one contour; and a proximal cap having a flat surface, wherein thedegree of curvature is between 1° and 45°, and wherein the proximal capis hemispherical, having the flat surface on a distal side of theproximal cap and a spherical surface on a proximal side of the proximalcap.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of graspingthe grip element and the proximal cap of the intramedullary pin.
 3. Themethod of claim 2, wherein the step of grasping the grip element and theproximal cap of the intramedullary pin is performed with a clamp.
 4. Themethod of claim 3, wherein the clamp comprises: a handle; two blades; apivot; and grasping elements including a notch, at least one protrusion,and a groove, wherein at least one of the grasping elements has at leastone contour, wherein the at least one contour on the at least onegrasping element of the clamp is structurally complementary to the gripelement of the intramedullary pin.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein adistal boundary of the main body of the intramedullary pin is in directcontact with the curved extension of the intramedullary pin, wherein thecurved extension of the intramedullary pin is in direct contact with thecylindrical portion of the distal cap of the intramedullary pin, whereina proximal boundary of the main body of the intramedullary pin is indirect contact with the grip element of the intramedullary pin; andwherein the grip element of the intramedullary pin is in direct contactwith the flat surface of the proximal cap of the intramedullary pin. 6.The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one contour of the gripelement of the intramedullary pin comprises at least one of an angledsurface, depression, hatching, indentation, protuberance, ridge, slottedsection, tracking section, hook, loop, alternating smooth and coarsesection, or a combination thereof.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein themain body, the curved extension, the distal cap, the grip element, andthe proximal cap of the intramedullary pin are composed of at least oneof stainless steel, titanium, nitinol and a bioabsorbable material. 8.The method of claim 1, wherein the degree of curvature of theintramedullary pin is between 5° and 45°.
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the degree of curvature of the intramedullary pin is between 10°and 40°.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the degree of curvature ofthe intramedullary pin is between 15° and 35°.
 11. The method of claim1, wherein the degree of curvature of the intramedullary pin is between20° and 30°.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the degree of curvatureof the intramedullary pin is about 25°.
 13. The method of claim 1,wherein the degree of curvature of the intramedullary pin is between 25°and 35°.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the degree of curvature ofthe intramedullary pin is about 30°.
 15. The method of claim 1, whereinthe fractured bone is a long bone.